Among the many athletic opportunities available to students at New Life Academy, Strength Squad is unique. This Middle and Upper School co-ed weightlifting team, coached by physical education teacher Dan Kvitrud (Coach K) and NLA Parent Billy Bogue, brings together students of all ages and abilities with a shared goal of overall health and personal improvement. Currently in its fifth season, Strength Squad meets three days a week after school from November to March in the school’s weight room to train and support one another. There are no tryouts and no experience is required. What matters most is dedication, hard work, and perseverance.
A typical after school training session begins with stretching, followed by individual student rotations using the weight room equipment to complete the lifting program outlined by Coach K. Both coaches provide tips on proper form and offer constructive feedback, while students actively encourage and motivate one another throughout the session. The encouragement students give one another is a hallmark of Strength Squad. Cam F., a senior and one of the three Strength Squad captains, reflects, “The atmosphere of Strength Squad is uplifting and encouraging, with a healthy dose of loud music and fun moments.” Ethan K., also a senior Strength Squad captain adds, “I have learned a lot about how to train others and different ways to motivate people.”
Faith is a key component of the overall dynamic of the team. On Wednesdays before practice, this is demonstrated through student-led devotions. “They’re asked to find a piece of scripture, draw a connection to their personal lives or weightlifting, and share what that scripture means to them in front of the other athletes,” Coach K explains. These devotions give students a chance to reflect, support one another, and center themselves mentally and spiritually for their workout.
Once a month, student athletes in Strength Squad have the opportunity to measure their progress by participating in Max Out Days. These days allow students to aim for personal bests by lifting the maximum amount they are capable of. According to Coach K, the results have already been encouraging. “Our first max out day was a smashing success. We had numerous students already best their personal records from last year’s meet, and I would expect those numbers to continue to improve.” Students share that same excitement. Cam adds, “I’m excited to see everyone improve on their Max Out lifts and the joy that comes with hitting a personal record.”
While the season concludes with competition at the Skyline Conference Weightlifting Meet at Concordia Academy in March, athletes take away far more than personal records or awards. Students are learning faith and life skills through the discipline of weight training, growing in faith and confidence that extends well beyond the weight room.
Being part of Strength Squad has helped me overcome mental hurdles.
Cam F. – NLA Senior and Strength Squad Captain
Instead of giving up in the face of a challenge, I learned to run at it.
If I fail, instead of feeling defeated, I simply try again.
Both coaches know from experience that weight training not only improves physical health, but also cultivates skills students can carry with them into the future. Coach K concludes, “I want students to develop a long-term vision and take ownership of their health. My goal is for them to walk into a weight room at the next stage of life, wherever that may be, feeling confident not only in their ability to lift safely, but also to serve as role models for others using the skills they’ve gained.”
